Former Google executive Matt Brittin is set to become the next director general of the BBC, according to multiple media reports, including The Times, which says the broadcaster’s board has approved his appointment. However, there has been no official confirmation from the BBC yet.If confirmed, Brittin will replace Tim Davey, who is due to step down in early April, with an interim arrangement expected before Brittin formally takes over. His selection highlights a notable change for the BBC, bringing in a leader from a technology and digital background rather than traditional broadcasting.
A technology leader who has worked at Google for nearly two decades
Matt Brittin, 57, spent nearly 20 years at Google, joining the company in 2007 and rising through the ranks to become president of Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in 2014. In that role, he oversaw one of the company’s largest regional operations and played a key role during a period of increased regulatory scrutiny and rapid digital transformation.He resigned from Google at the end of 2024, describing the time thereafter as a “mini gap year”.Before Google, Brittin worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company and held senior roles at Trinity Mirror, one of the UK’s largest newspaper publishers.
Education and personal life
Born in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, Brittin was educated at Hampton School before studying land economics and geography at the University of Cambridge. He later obtained an MBA with Distinction from the London Business School.He was the first person in his family to go to university. Brittin married Kathryn Bates in 1995, and the couple have two sons. Known as a fan of classic British television and science fiction, he has previously cited shows such as Doctor Who as one of his favourites.
what does he say about himself
On his LinkedIn profile, Brittin describes himself as “tall, energetic, British” and humorously adds that he is “above average at the game of sitting.” He has also described himself as a “gap year student” and a “part-time athlete”.He has expressed interest in “tech for good”, particularly in the use of artificial intelligence for positive impact.After leaving Google, he said he planned to spend time reading, learning new skills, and even trying activities like scuba diving.
Sports background: Olympians and sailors
Brittin has a strong sporting background in rowing. He represented Great Britain at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships. He also participated three times in the Historic Boat Race for Cambridge University.
Board roles and honors
In addition to his corporate career, Brittin has held a number of board and advisory roles, including The Climate Group, Media Trust and a non-executive directorship at Sainsbury’s. He is also associated with Guardian Media Group.In recognition of his contributions to technology and digital skills, he was awarded a CBE in the UK New Year Honours.
A different kind of BBC leader
If his appointment is confirmed, Brittin will be one of the few BBC directors general to come from outside the traditional media and editorial ranks. His digital and platform experience is considered particularly relevant as the BBC faces increasing competition from global streaming services and tech-driven platforms.His leadership will also come at a crucial time, amid debate over the BBC’s funding model, its future charter and its role in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
